| Information | | This course will look at predominantly free-standing sculpture,
architectural sculpture and vase-painting produced during the Archaic,
Classical and Hellenistic periods of Greece, and to artworks from
Republican and Imperial Rome. We will work in a reasonably in-depth
yet relaxed way, at our own pace, with the emphasis on beholding
beautiful objects and being filled with joy at the sight of them
(Plotinus).
The architecture of temples, houses and public spaces of agora/forum
will also be considered as they are of interest in and of themselves, and
often provided the context of display for works of art in the Ancient
World.
Each monthly session will start with a 30 – 45 minute well-illustrated
presentation on the period or style being studied, with opportunities
for participants to interact with the speaker with questions or
comments during or after the talk. This will also include a 5 – 10
minute ‘Special Focus’ on a relevant topic of science, technology or
engineering, such as carving marble, lost wax casting or ancient cranes.
Following any discussion raised by the presentation and members’
contributions, there will be a 15 minute Mosaic Moment for the artistic
appreciation of an ancient mosaic, Greek or Roman, not necessarily
related to the main theme of the day.
Participants will be encouraged to contribute their own thoughts, ideas
and opinions as critical appreciation or regarding cultural background
and/or significance on artworks studied. Pointers for individual
research at home will be offered at the end of each session for those
who wish, which could act as something to share with the group in the
next month’s session.
Visits to London or Cambridge museums could be used to extend and
develop learning about, and enjoyment of, ancient works of art, if
participants so wished. |